The sky turns hues of pink and purple over a field of Joshua trees.

National Park

Joshua Tree National Park

visit on nps.gov

Info

Two distinct desert ecosystems, the Mojave and the Colorado, come together in Joshua Tree National Park. A fascinating variety of plants and animals make their homes in a land sculpted by strong winds and occasional torrents of rain. Dark night skies, a rich cultural history, and surreal geologic features add to the wonder of this vast wilderness in southern California. Come explore for yourself!

Park Photos

The sky turns hues of pink and purple over a field of Joshua trees.
1 of 8

Quail Springs area at sunset

Credit: NPS / Emily Hassell

The sky turns hues of pink and purple over a field of Joshua trees.
hiker looks over Hidden Valley
an historic wood house seen through the missing windshield of an old, rusty vehicle
Joshua trees grow on a flat plain with boulder outcrops and mountains in the distance
a little girl smiles while wearing a Jr. Ranger hat and badge
a fiery sky behind the silhouette of a Joshua tree
people climbing on boulders are silhouetted against a colorful sunset sky
night scene showing stars of the Milky Way over a sign saying "Entering Joshua Tree National Park"

Activities

Auto and ATV
Scenic Driving
Biking
Camping
Backcountry Camping
Car or Front Country Camping
Horse Camping (see also Horse/Stock Use)
Group Camping
Climbing
Rock Climbing
Picnicking
Hiking
Backcountry Hiking
Front-Country Hiking
Horse Trekking
Horse Camping (see also camping)
Horseback Riding
Guided Tours
Self-Guided Tours - Walking
Self-Guided Tours - Auto
Junior Ranger Program
Museum Exhibits
Bookstore and Park Store
Astronomy
Stargazing
Wildlife Watching
Birdwatching
Food
Shopping

Fees

Passes

Operating Hours

Joshua Tree National Park is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Visitation increases as temperatures moderate in the fall, peaks during the spring wildflower season, and diminishes during the heat of summer. Some areas of the park are designated for day use only. Visitor centers keep separate hours; please see descriptions.

DayHours
Friday
All Day
Monday
All Day
Sunday
All Day
Tuesday
All Day
Saturday
All Day
Thursday
All Day
Wednesday
All Day

Weather info

Days are typically clear with less than 25% humidity. Temperatures are most comfortable in the spring and fall, with an average highs around 85°F (29°C) and average lows around 50°F (10°C) respectively. Winter brings cooler days, around 60°F (15°C), and freezing nights. It occasionally snows at higher elevations. Summers are hot, over 100°F (38°C) during the day and not cooling much below 75°F (24°C) at night.

Events